Cool is in the eye of the beholder, and I understand that oral piercing is a way of expressing your individuality….But I have to say…IT’S BEST IF YOU JUST DIDN’T DO IT!Here’s why…The gums of people with piercings are exposed to high amounts of all types of bacteria, and that can cause your gums in the front teeth to recede, leading to periodontal disease.The stud can rub along the lower front teeth, wearing the gum tissue down, leading to eventual tooth loss.Half of people with tongue piercings wind up with chipped teeth, mostly in the back of the mouth. The cost to repair the teeth that are damaged by the stud is much more expensive than the cost of the initial piercing.The tongue is where bacteria find a niche. And these germs set up little communities called biofilms on the surface of the studs. The bugs create little fortresses that make the bacteria resistant to mouthwash and even antibiotics. Studs made of stainless steel make the best homes for these colonies of bacteria and ones made of the plastic called polypropylene make the worst. Bacteria in your mouth cause increased inflammation in your body.Many doctors think that this type of inflammation can lead to all sorts of problems, including heart disease. So, the simple act of piercing your tongue can lead to all sorts of dental and medical problems.Nerves and blood vessels may be permanently damaged.Increased saliva production can cause drooling.Do you like to taste your food? Do you really want to damage some of your valuable taste buds by getting your tongue pierced?If you’re thinking about getting your tongue pierced, please re-think your decision.You may look cool around some of your friends, but the damage that tongue piercing does to your mouth isn’t worth it.If you already have piercings, contact your dentist or physician immediately if you have any signs of infection—swelling, pain, fever, chills, shaking or a red-streaked appearance around the site of the piercing. Check the tightness of your jewelry periodically (with clean hands). This can help prevent you from swallowing or choking if the jewelry becomes dislodged. When taking part in sports, remove the jewelry and protect your mouth with a mouth guard.Be sure to keep up with your checkups at the dentist, and stay on top of your daily oral care-brushing, flossing, and rinsing.If you have any questions or concerns about oral piercings please don’t hesitate to contact me or schedule an appointment.Have a wonderful July!Dr. Rachel